AS Music

Music
This course follows the Edexcel (London exams) syllabus, which has been at the forefront of A level Music and Music Technology syllabus development since the late 1980s. It is a requirement that you should have studied Music at GCSE level in order to take this subject. The three key elements of listening, composing, and performing are developments of work covered at GCSE. More directly relevant to the course is a solid background in practical study and theory. At the start of the course you must have reached grade 5 (or above) on your instrument and in music theory, though you need not necessarily have taken the exams. You will be expected to join one or more of the College ensembles (see separate pamphlet: Recreational and extra-curricular activities in Music, Dance and Drama ), and to take part in the department's annual programme of performances.

The College has excellent Music facilities, including a recital room with a wide selection of new instruments including 2 grand pianos. There is also a rehearsal room, 6 practice rooms (3 of which have a recording studio adjacent), 2 music technology IT rooms and a music technology drop in centre with IT equipment.

What Will I Learn On This Course?

Within a range of different styles drawn from pop and rock, jazz and classical music, you will learn:

· how to compose for a range of instruments
· how to use music technology as a creative aid to composition
· how to differentiate between a wide range of musical styles and eras
· how to recognise various musical techniques through listening and analysis, and to implement these techniques through practical and written exercises.

Course Content And Method Of Assessment


AS Level
Unit 1 Performing - A 5-6 minute performance of a range of pieces, solo and/or ensemble. (Practical examination (30%)

Unit 2 Composing - Composition work based on one of four set briefs, covering a range of musical styles. (Supervised coursework 30%)

Unit 3 Developing musical understanding - A test of analytical skills and theoretical understanding based on seen and unseen musical extracts. (Written/listening examination 40%)

A Level
Unit 4 Extended performance - A 12-15 minute performance of a range of pieces, solo and/or ensemble. (Practical examination 30%)

Unit 5 Composition and/or technical study - The submission of a portfolio of two pieces, either compositions, or compositional technique exercises. (Supervised coursework 30%)

Unit 6 Further musical understanding - An examination consisting of an unseen listening exercise, and a range of questions based on pieces studied during the course. (Written/listening examination 40%)

After The Course

A level Music is recognised as a standard qualification entry to Higher Education. The theoretical content of the A level Music course means it is accepted by all universities for entry to degree level courses.

Apart from careers in the music industry there are also career opportunities for music graduates in many other fields including: the armed forces, radio & TV, law, advertising, accountancy, journalism, marketing and graduate entry to medical school.

Subject Combinations

Music can be taken alongside any other subject at Advanced level.

Entry Requirements

Normal College entry requirements apply, plus Grade 5 practical in one instrument, and at least a grade C in Music GCSE. Grade 5 standard in music theory is essential.